Sweet peas (Lathyrus odoratus) were first cultivated in Sicily for their sweet fragrance and butterfly-like flowers in hues of white, pink, red, violet, and purple (among others). Introduced to England in the late 17th century, these climbing annuals later became a...
Calendula is more than a pretty face — it’s a common ingredient in herbal teas, home remedies, and skincare products. The sun-loving “pot marigold” is beautiful and edible, and its ability to attract pollinators makes it a beneficial garden plant,...
The gardenia comes from tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands. The plant adapts well to Southern California’s Mediterranean climate and rewards the attentive gardener with fragrant, creamy white blossoms from late spring...
Imagine a tea party where only plants are invited. No pinky-pointing socialites. No crumpets and biscuits. The tea is a home-brewed concoction of rotted vegetable matter and water. Sounds delish, right? Only your plants will love it and beg for more. What Is Compost...
Salvia is a genus of around 1,000 species, including ornamentals, wildflowers, and culinary herbs like sage. Native to the Mediterranean, Central and South America, and Asia, it has been used worldwide in traditional medicine, cooking, and cultural ceremonies. Its...
The record low temperature in downtown Los Angeles is 28°F (-2°C), set on three occasions. Outlying areas like the San Fernando Valley have seen even colder temperatures — dropping to 18°F (-7.8°C) in 1989. While this may not raise eyebrows in Duluth, Minnesota,...
